Album Review: Seanie Vaughan, Between Chaos and Order

This is soulful Irish folk-rocker Seanie Vaughan’s third album, and the long-awaited follow-up to 2017’s Redemption. Both his mellow delivery and lyrical leanings suggest a man facing into adversity with courage and energy, his head-on approach to life, love and survival requiring no fake drama.

Tracks like ‘Highway’ and ‘Be Strong’ come replete with gossamer harmonies, with the latter especially brimming with plangent tones via his acoustic guitar. ‘Mirror’ rises up from an ethereal soundscape, with Vaughan’s plaintive vocal weaving its magic to spectacular effect.

‘Beaten’ has a sturdier structure, solid drums and buzzing instrumentation, steeling Vaughan to face the future with a realistic mix of courage and trepidation. ‘Blue Skies’, meanwhile, continues down electric avenue with evocative guitars and drums, on a catchy song that demands repeat hearings.

Sprightly drums kick-start ‘You Give Me All’, where the Beatles-like harmonies and Vaughan’s melodic flair draw you in and cuddle you. Overall, Vaughan’s rugged, realistic songs possess a nourishing vitality that suggest he should be with us for the long haul.

• Out Now